Vaccinations
1026 public facilities across South Africa
South Africa's Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI-SA) provides free vaccines from birth through childhood, protecting against 13 diseases. National immunisation coverage for the primary series is approximately 82% — above the African average but below the 95% target needed for herd immunity. The programme includes vaccines not available in many African countries: rotavirus (preventing diarrhoeal death, the leading killer of under-5s), pneumococcal conjugate (preventing pneumonia and meningitis), and HPV vaccine for girls in Grade 5 (preventing cervical cancer, which kills 3,000 South African women annually). Catch-up immunisation is available at any age — there is no "too late" for missed vaccines.
What to expect
The nurse checks which vaccines are due based on the child's age and vaccination history. No appointment needed — walk in during clinic hours.
Most vaccines are injections in the thigh (infants) or upper arm (older children). Oral vaccines: rotavirus and polio drops. HPV is given at school (Grade 5 girls) or at the clinic.
Standard precaution for allergic reactions (extremely rare: 1 in 1 million). The nurse observes the child before you leave.
The nurse stamps and dates each vaccine given. Keep this booklet — it is your child's vaccination proof for school registration and future healthcare.
Who is eligible?
All children in South Africa, regardless of nationality, documentation, or medical aid status. Adults can receive catch-up vaccines (hepatitis B, tetanus, flu) at most clinics. Pregnant women receive tetanus toxoid.
Read the full guide
Our guide covers everything in detail: step-by-step process, FAQs, and practical tips.
Child Immunisation Schedule (South Africa) →